Are Dachshunds Easy to Train? The Truth About This Stubborn Breed

If you've researched Dachshunds online, you've probably come across two completely opposite opinions.

Some owners describe them as intelligent, eager learners that quickly pick up new commands.

Others insist they're one of the most stubborn dog breeds you'll ever own.

So who's right?

The truth lies somewhere in the middle.

Dachshunds are highly intelligent dogs, but they weren't bred to follow instructions the way breeds like Border Collies or Golden Retrievers were. Instead, they were developed to hunt independently, making decisions underground without constant guidance from humans.

That independence can sometimes look like stubbornness.

In this guide, we'll explain why Dachshunds behave the way they do, what makes training easier (or harder), and whether they're a good choice for first-time dog owners.

Quick Answer

Are Dachshunds easy to train?

Yes—but not in the way many people expect.

Dachshunds learn quickly because they're intelligent. However, they also have an independent personality that means they won't always obey simply because they're told to.Owners who use positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency often find Dachshunds enjoyable to train. Those expecting instant obedience may become frustrated.

Think of a Dachshund as a clever problem-solver rather than a dog that automatically aims to please.

Why Do People Think Dachshunds Are Stubborn?

The word "stubborn" appears in almost every conversation about Dachshunds. While there's some truth behind the label, it's often misunderstood. Your Dachshund isn't ignoring you because they're trying to be difficult.

More often, they're asking themselves a simple question:

"What's in it for me?"

This mindset comes directly from the breed's history. Unlike herding dogs that worked closely with handlers, Dachshunds hunted badgers and rabbits in underground tunnels where they often had to make decisions on their own. That independent thinking is still part of the breed today.

Independence Was Their Job

A hunting Dachshund couldn't stop and wait for instructions inside a tunnel.

They had to:

• Track scent.
• Locate prey.
• Decide when to bark.
• Judge danger.
• Work confidently in tight spaces.

Generations of selective breeding reinforced these traits.

Today, they make Dachshunds confident, curious, and sometimes selective about following commands.

Intelligence Doesn't Always Mean Obedience

Many people assume that smart dogs are automatically easy to train. In reality, intelligence and obedience aren't the same thing. A Dachshund often understands what you're asking.

The real question is whether they believe responding is worth the effort. Once owners understand this difference, training becomes much less frustrating.

What Makes Dachshunds Easy to Train?

Despite their reputation, Dachshunds have several qualities that actually make training easier than many people expect.

They Learn Commands Quickly

Most Dachshunds pick up basic cues surprisingly fast.

Common beginner commands include:

• Sit
• Down
• Stay
• Come
• Leave It

The challenge isn't teaching the command—it's building reliability when distractions appear.

They Love Food Rewards

Food is one of the strongest motivators for most Dachshunds.

Small, high-value treats help maintain focus and encourage repetition.

Many owners find that simply upgrading the reward dramatically improves training sessions.

They Enjoy Mental Challenges

Dachshunds like solving problems.

Activities such as:

• Puzzle feeders
• Nose work
• Trick training
• Hide-and-seek
• Scent games

keep them mentally engaged while reinforcing good behavior.

Training becomes much easier when it feels like a game rather than a chore.

They Form Strong Bonds With Their Families

Although independent, Dachshunds are deeply loyal dogs. They enjoy spending time with their owners and often thrive when training sessions include praise, play, and positive interaction.

Building a strong relationship creates a dog that wants to cooperate—not because they have to, but because they enjoy working with you.

What Makes Dachshunds Harder to Train?

Every breed has its challenges, and Dachshunds are no exception.

Understanding these traits helps you prepare realistic expectations instead of becoming discouraged.

Short Attention Spans

Especially as puppies, Dachshunds can lose interest quickly.

Long training sessions often end with:

• Wandering away.
• Sniffing the floor.
• Looking out the window.
• Searching for something more exciting.

Keeping sessions under ten minutes usually produces much better results.

Strong Sense of Smell

A fascinating scent can instantly become more important than whatever you're teaching.

When practicing outdoors, remember that you're competing with birds, squirrels, rabbits, and countless interesting smells.

Begin training in quiet environments before gradually increasing distractions.

High Prey Drive

Because Dachshunds were bred to hunt, many become intensely focused when they spot small animals.

This instinct can make recall training more challenging than with some companion breeds.

A reliable "Come" command requires regular practice throughout your dog's life.

Selective Listening

Many owners joke that their Dachshund has "excellent hearing—when they want to."

This isn't entirely inaccurate.

If responding has consistently produced good outcomes, your dog is far more likely to listen.

Positive reinforcement builds that motivation over time

Are Dachshunds Good for First-Time Dog Owners?

The answer depends more on the owner's expectations than the breed itself.

A first-time owner who expects instant obedience may find a Dachshund frustrating.

However, someone willing to invest time in positive, consistent training can absolutely succeed with this breed.

Dachshunds are often an excellent choice for beginners because they are:

• Highly affectionate
• Adaptable to apartments and small homes
• Moderate in exercise needs
• Eager to spend time with their families
• Intelligent enough to learn a wide range of commands and tricks

The key is understanding that training is a long-term relationship rather than a short-term project.

How Long Does It Take to Train a Dachshund?

There isn't a single timeline that fits every dog.

Age, personality, previous experiences, and consistency all influence how quickly your Dachshund learns.

As a general guide:

Training Goal	Average Time
Learning their name	A few days
Sit and Down	1–2 weeks
Loose-leash walking	Several weeks to a few months
Reliable recall	Ongoing practice
House training	3–6 months (sometimes longer)
Basic obedience	2–4 months of consistent training

Rather than asking, "How quickly can my Dachshund learn this?" it's more helpful to ask, "How consistently can I practice?"

Five minutes of training every day is far more effective than one long session each weekend.

Tips for Making Dachshund Training Easier

Training doesn't have to feel like a battle. A few simple strategies can dramatically improve your success.

Keep Sessions Short and Fun

Dachshunds thrive on variety.

Aim for:

• 5–10 minute sessions
• Two to four sessions per day
• Plenty of praise and rewards

Ending while your dog is still engaged helps maintain enthusiasm for the next lesson.

Use High-Value Rewards

Not all treats are equally motivating.

For new or challenging behaviors, choose rewards your Dachshund truly loves, such as:

• Small pieces of cooked chicken
• Freeze-dried meat treats
• Soft training treats
• Tiny bits of cheese (in moderation)

As behaviors become more reliable, gradually reduce food rewards and replace some with praise or play.

Be Consistent With Commands

Choose one cue for each behavior and stick with it.

For example:

• "Come" instead of alternating between "Come here," "Over here," and "Get over here."
• "Down" for lying down rather than mixing it with "Lay down."

Consistency reduces confusion and helps your Dachshund learn more quickly.

Reward the Behavior You Want

Instead of focusing on mistakes, pay attention to the moments your Dachshund gets it right.

For example:

• Sitting calmly before meals
• Walking on a loose leash
• Choosing not to bark at a passerby
• Coming when called

Rewarding these behaviors increases the likelihood they'll happen again.

Practice in Different Locations

A command learned in the kitchen may not automatically transfer to the backyard or park.

Gradually practice in a variety of environments:

• Living room
• Backyard
• Quiet neighborhood streets
• Pet-friendly stores
• Local parks

This helps your Dachshund understand that commands apply everywhere, not just at home.

Common Training Challenges

Even well-trained Dachshunds can test their owners from time to time.

Here are a few common issues and how to address them.

Barking at Every Noise

Dachshunds make excellent watchdogs, which means they're quick to alert their families.

Instead of trying to stop barking altogether, teach your dog that one or two alert barks are enough before rewarding quiet behavior.

Pulling on the Leash

Many Dachshunds become excited as soon as they head outside.

Stop walking whenever the leash becomes tight.

Resume only when the leash loosens.

Over time, your dog learns that pulling slows the walk, while walking politely keeps things moving.

Ignoring Recall Outdoors

The outdoors is full of distractions.

Practice recall using a long training leash in secure areas before expecting reliable off-leash responses.

Always make returning to you rewarding.

Never call your Dachshund only for unpleasant experiences like ending playtime or giving medication.

Potty Training Setbacks

House training accidents are common, especially in young puppies.

If accidents increase:

• Return to a stricter potty schedule.
• Supervise more closely indoors.
• Clean accidents with an enzymatic cleaner.
• Reward successful outdoor potty breaks immediately.

Most setbacks are temporary with consistent routines.

Read more: How to Train a Dachshund Puppy

Myth vs Fact

Myth	Fact
Dachshunds can't be trained.	They are highly trainable with consistent, reward-based methods.
They are stubborn because they aren't smart.	Dachshunds are intelligent but naturally independent thinkers.
Punishment works best for stubborn dogs.	Positive reinforcement is more effective and strengthens trust.
Older Dachshunds can't learn new tricks.	Dogs of any age can continue learning throughout their lives.
Training ends after puppyhood.	Ongoing practice keeps behaviors reliable and prevents bad habits from developing.

Dispelling these myths helps owners approach training with realistic expectations and greater confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dachshunds one of the hardest dogs to train?

Not necessarily.

They are more independent than many popular family breeds, but they are far from impossible to train.

With patience and positive reinforcement, most Dachshunds become well-mannered companions.

Do male or female Dachshunds train more easily?

Research doesn't show a consistent difference.

Individual personality, early socialization, and training methods have a much greater impact than sex.

Can Dachshunds learn tricks?

Absolutely.

Many Dachshunds enjoy learning:

• Spin
• Shake
• Roll over
• High five
• Weave
• Fetch specific toys

Trick training provides valuable mental stimulation while strengthening your bond.

Is professional training necessary?

Not always.

Many owners successfully train their Dachshunds at home using reward-based techniques.

However, puppy classes or professional trainers can provide helpful guidance, especially for first-time owners or dogs with behavioral challenges.

Key Takeaways

• Dachshunds are intelligent dogs with an independent personality.
• They aren't naturally eager to obey, but they learn quickly when motivated.
• Positive reinforcement consistently produces the best long-term results.
• Short, enjoyable training sessions are more effective than lengthy drills.
• Socialization and consistency are just as important as teaching commands.
• Patience and realistic expectations lead to a stronger relationship and a well-behaved companion.

Final Thoughts

So, are Dachshunds easy to train?

The answer is yes—if you understand what motivates them.

They're unlikely to become the type of dog that follows every command with military precision, and that's perfectly okay. Their independence is part of the breed's charm and reflects the work they were originally bred to do.

Rather than trying to change your Dachshund's personality, work with it. Use positive reinforcement, keep training engaging, and celebrate steady progress instead of expecting perfection.

With time, consistency, and plenty of encouragement, you'll build more than obedience—you'll build a trusting partnership with a confident, happy dog.